Dr Martha Newson took her rave research to the rave this summer, for a discussion on Synchrony, at We Out Here festival in Cambridgeshire. Do the connections built through club culture benefit people’s mental health?
Cultural Anthropologist Dr Martha Newson joined a panel of producers and DJ’s Brian d’Souza (othwerwise known as Auntie Flo), and Erika McKoy, brought together by neuro-aesthetics expert Robyn Landaun founder of Kinda Studios, to explore how the combination of drums, dance, drugs can create a feeling of connection and exaltation in collective music experiences in the Talks Tent at We Out Here festival in Cambridgeshire. Newson’s research centres on group bonding, ritual, and community.
“When we enter a crowd of strangers, to experience live music, we know we’ll leave feeling like a bonded family. This live connection is scientifically proven to unite us. Our heart rates, brain waves and emotions literally synchronise to the rhythms of the music and the movements of the crowd. The vibe, the neuro-chemicals, the drums and dance leave us feeling exalted and transformed in collective music experiences.”
Newson’s research paper titled ‘‘I get high with a little help from my friends” explores how raves can invoke identity fusion and lasting co-operation via transformative experiences’.
‘Undoing the negative connotations associated with rave culture is a big challenge, but this research shows there are indeed social and behavioural benefits that ravers gain from the experience. Our need to connect meaningfully with others will always prevail – whether it’s singing in choir at church or stomping to electronic music in a dis-used warehouse.’